Master Groundwater Contractors

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The designation of Master Groundwater Contractor (MGWC) recognizes those who have proven exceptional knowledge and dedication in water well construction and pump installation.

To take the MGWC exam, candidates must be currently certified in good standing in all exam categories except for exams M and N, and must have five years of full-time experience in well construction or pump installation in an operational or supervisory capacity. The eligible candidate is expected to possess good customer service and employee relations skills in addition to a solid technical operations background.

The NGWA MGWC exam has been revised and the newly constructed version will be given to those who sit for the exam from this point forward. Skill and competency areas have been determined for the exam as follows:

Drilling operations — 15 percent

Water systems — 15 percent

Business management — 30 percent

Troubleshooting and diagnostics — 25 percent

Water quality/sustainability — 10 percent

Emerging issues — 5 percent

The bulk of this exam is composed of essay questions, though there are some multiple-choice questions as well.

The MGWC exam is offered annually at the NGWA Groundwater Expo. Furthermore, candidates can test at NGWA anytime during the year after making arrangements 30 days in advance.

A four-hour consecutive time period is given in which the exam must be completed. The MGWC candidate must complete the exam in this one exam session. It covers aspects of business, management, and all types of drilling and pump installation. A minimum score of 70 percent is required to receive a passing grade.

Due to the special handling of this exam, the fee is $75.

If you have questions about the NGWA certification programs, contact the NGWA certification coordinator at certification@ngwa.org or call 800 551.7379 (614 898.7791).